Iffy for 16+
Story of death and redemption too much for kids.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this emotional drama isn't likely to appeal to kids or teens. The director is Danish and relatively unknown to American audiences, and despite Halle Berry's popularity, the trailer and ads clearly highlight the mature dramatic themes -- which include death, murder, drug addiction, and grief. Several scenes show Benicio Del Toro's character doing (or already high on) heroin and Berry's widowed character sobbing. The language is strong (and includes "f--k," "s--t," and more), but it's not excessive, particularly taken in the context of the movie's powerful emotions.
- Families can talk about loyalty and friendship. How is Brian an example of unconditional friendship to Jerry? How does Jerry help Audrey move forward -- and vice-versa? The movie's Danish director, Susanne Bier, is known for her naturalistic, realistic style. Is it obvious that the movie wasn't made by a mainstream American filmmaker? Why or why not? How do movies and TV shows reflect the culture that produces them?
What to watch for
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Violence: Disturbing scenes of junkies getting high and a very upsetting double-murder suicide. Audrey pushes and pounds on Jerry in anger.
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Sex: Audrey and Brian kiss, fool around, and embrace in bed before going to sleep.
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Language: Expletives -- including "f--k," "s--t," etc. -- are strong and fairly frequent, but said mostly out of grief.
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Consumerism: Volvo SUV, Coldstone Creamery.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: Several scenes show Jerry getting high and strung out on heroin. Other drug addicts also shown.
Fan Reviews provided by
5
Great by SoWhat3
A surprisingly good film. All three main actors were incredible, Halle, Benicio and Mulder. Beautiful story, well written and great photography (although I could do without as many eye closeups). Well worth seeing.
5
Amazing! by JoeRon
I just finished seeing it, it was incredible!
Can I tell you all, I NEVER CRY in movies and when you watch the two people on the screen deal with their pain - it's so beautiful. You feel their pain!
Halle and Benicio push each other and deliver magnificent performances.
If they both don't get at least nominated, I will be surprised.
GO SEE THIS MOVIE!
5
Wow! by suemarie
What a wonderful, inspiring,moving movie. Benecio Del Toro has never been better. Without saying a word his face conveys everything.
This movie is kind of slow moving but very deliberate in each and every scene.IT is not the kind of movie I usually gravitatie toward but I am so glad I that i saw it. Very, very good movie. "Accept the Good" [This is from the movie]
See It!
5
Accept the Good by Mr.V60
Other than a bad title, this was a very good movie! I made the mistake of reading the critics' take on this film and thankfully discovered that they were way off on this one! This is a very well acted story of love, sorrow, addiction, and recovery, and I really think everyone will identify with at least one of these characters. Halle and Benicio gave oscar-worthy performances in this 2or 3 tissue heartwarmer. Treat yourself and go see it!!
5
FANTASTIC by lilillie69
Just went to see this movie and cried thru most of it, it was great, Halle and Benicio are magic together, and the two children are adorable. Its a Must see, but bring plenty of kleenex. A+++++ movie.
5
Emotional trip by ameojeda
Do not go to this movie if you can't sit still for two hours or if trying to understand, grasp and feel a flurry of emotions is not your cup of tea. It's slow, it delves into two of the most terrible pains a human can feel. Superb acting, not too much or fake, just right from both Benicio and Halle. I wish more people would see this movie...it's breathtaking.
5
Awesome by margielewis
This movie was so moving, I left with so many emotions, just goes to show you that recovery is possible and there is no greater weapon than the human soul on fire...........This movie took me through every emotion, from sadness, to happiness, to sadness, to happiness up and down all around, Del Toro and Berry were a great duo that lit up the screen with passion. This is a must go, I am going to see it again and go all by myself.
2
Save your money by DaveRox
My wife and I went to see this hoping it would be a thoughtful, redemption-type story. It tried, but never really got anywhere. On the plus side, Del Toro was very believable as a drug addict, and Duchovny turned in a great (albeit too short) performance as a loyal friend and husband. Unfortunately, it was just impossible to like Halle Berry's character. And once again, the movie never got anywhere. There didn't seem to be any point or resolution, but not in a clever, artsy way of leaving things hanging either. Just incomplete.
If you're looking for an intelligent, thought-provoking movie to see, take a pass on this one and go see Gone Baby Gone. We left the theater blown away after that one.
5
Things We Lost In the Fire by Francesca317
This is an ABSOLUTE must see film. Benecio Del Toro and Halle Berry are both in their Oscar-winning element. They deliver a performance unmatched by any other actor out there! The subject matter definitely gives one something to think about. 2 paralell forces intertwined by a common entity who support each other in time of need, willingly, without reservation. I almost never cry in movies, but I shed a few tears with this one.
I can hardy wait for the Oscar nominations to be announced!
1
Thing we lost in the fire by Deborah Webb
This was the worst movie. #1 there were two people in the theatre. (that was not clue enough) #2 I waited and waited for the big plot that never happened. This movie was quite disappointing.